Classic Shoe Styles That Are Worth Investing In

Fashion trends come and go, but some shoe styles are timeless. They are versatile enough to work with multiple outfits. Some perform specific functions for you, such as protecting your feet from inclement weather. Every closet should contain these classics as the basic essentials. You can then augment your collection as you see fit.

Sneakers

When it comes to active footwear, men's and women's sneakers are the gold standard. People who are serious about athletics can find state-of-the-art sneakers designed to avoid injury and improve performance. Not everybody needs to make quite as significant an investment in a pair of sneakers, but even people who are mildly active should have a pair that are comfortable and serviceable for light activity.

Loafers

On occasions when sneakers won't do, loafers are your best bet for women's and men's casual shoes. Loafers are built to stand up to day-to-day wear and can pull casual and semi-formal outfits together in a way that few styles can. There are different varieties of loafers too, so you can pick a pair that matches your overall fashion concept.

Dress Shoes and Pumps

When it comes to dress versus casual shoes, loafers can be dressed up or down. When in doubt, however, it is better to have unambiguous dress shoes on hand for really formal occasions. For men, that may involve styles such as the blucher or oxford, while women should have at least one pair of pumps. No matter what style of dress shoes you have, keeping them polished helps you to make a good impression. It is also a good idea to have dress shoes in a neutral color so you can wear them with multiple outfits.

All-Weather Boots

Boots are stylish no matter what, but they can also serve a functional purpose in protecting your feet in inclement weather. However, not all boots are built to stand up to the elements. Boots made of all leather may shrink or crack if exposed to water. Choosing boots in a weather-resistant material means you do not have to sacrifice style for comfort in keeping your feet dry, and you can make a fashion statement at all times of the year.

Sandals

When the weather is warm, other shoe styles can be uncomfortable. One of the best ways to enjoy spring and summer is to throw on a pair of sandals and head outside. Many sandal varieties are similar to loafers in that they can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. Sandals are appropriate for both men and women. However, people who are shy about showing their feet may want to forgo them altogether rather than choose a tightly woven pair that do not expose much of the foot. These varieties can defeat the purpose of wearing sandals in the first place.

Stocking your closet with these classic shoe styles can represent a significant investment. However, it doesn't have to. Check online retailers to see if you can find name brand shoes cheap. Online retailers may also offer additional benefits, such as free shipping, return policies of up to a year, and price match guarantees.